Hello,
Your symptoms make me think of
intrahepatic cholestasis of
pregnancy (ICP). It's a condition where
bile acid instead of getting transported to gut, but build up in the blood instead. Thus liver function tests and Bile acids in blood are useful investigations. Sometimes this condition can lead to still birth. That's why if the ICP is severe, labor may be induced to prevent complications. ICP also causes
severe itching.
The following are few treatment options for itching:
1) Mild itching: Wearing loose clothes may help prevent itching, as your clothes are less likely to rub against your skin and cause irritation.
2) You may also want to avoid synthetic materials and opt for natural ones, such as cotton, instead. They are "breathable" and this allows the air to circulate close to the skin.
3) You may find having a cool bath or applying lotion or moisturizer can help soothe the itching.
4) Some women find that products with strong perfumes can irritate their skin, so you could try using unperfumed lotion or soap.
5) Taking a prescription drug called
Ursodiol (
Actigall, Urso,
Urso Forte), which helps to lower the level of bile in your blood.
Please do notify your symptoms to your gynecologist so that she can monitor bile acids and liver function tests every week to prevent complications.
Take care. Hope I have answered your question. Let me know if I can assist you further.
Regards,
Dr. Pallavi M., Anesthesiologist